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Thursday, November 27, 2014

I sat here a few nights ago, thinking about what I am thankful for as we come upon another Thanksgiving. I have to admit, this is one of my least favourite holidays...but it's one worth celebrating. Not because it is the last remaining holiday that keeps us from going into full-blown Christmas mode. Also not because of the food, the football, or the shopping afterwards.

But because it is a day that should be celebrated as it's spelled out in the day's name itself: giving thanks.

I have so much to give thanks for. The greatest of these things is God's love and sacrifice that I might live my life fully in His hands. Giving thanks should always start with His sacrifice. From there, the list just begins to fill itself out...

So I wrote down a small prayer of thanks that I want to share with you.

As we gather once again, on a day that we have set aside to give thanks, I want to thank You...

For the sound of laughter, the chatter around the table, the unnecessary words and the words unspoken, thank You. Without the times of tears, we wouldn’t know how to laugh together. Without the words, we wouldn’t know when to be silent. and without regret, we wouldn’t know when to speak up next time.

For every hug, eye roll, sarcastic joke, smiling face, and story told, thank You. It reminds me that around us there is joy and grief to be had, surrounded by those who keep us on our toes. There are people I share this day with who will continue to challenge me into a new person, tell me truth, and not be afraid to share the good and the bad as it comes.

For the smells coming from the kitchen, the burnt bread, the leftovers we will have tomorrow and those who brought the feast to the table, thank You. It leaves me knowing I will have a full stomach and a full heart. It reminds me that we aren't the only ones celebrating today and that tomorrow as we gather at a different table, You will provide for us again.

For the memories I've already made and the ones being made today. For the memories we wish we didn't have and the ones we never will, thank You. It is no mistake that each person is here today and it wasn't a mistake where we were ten years ago. Tomorrow is in Your hands and for that we are thankful. We trust that the memories You keep us from making and the ones we have yet to make are all crafted by Your hand.

Thank you, Lord. For your love. For your sacrifice. For all that you have done for me and for those I love. Thank you.